First Aid

There's nothing worse than getting eaten alive by bugs, especially for a child. I remember getting chomped as a kid when traveling through the Mediterranean, and lathering up with bug juice when in Southeast Asia. On our recent backpack trip to Indian Heaven Wilderness in Washington State, all four kids in our group survived with very few bites, despite the critters being out in full force. The key: kid-friendly insect repellents and clothing.

Whether you head overseas to the tropics or you take the family for a hike in your local state park, the best protection is two fold, insect-resistant clothing and chemical repellents. Long pants and long sleeve shirts are important: the tighter the weave, the better clothes to keep bites at bay. Chemical repellent is an adjunct: some apply on exposed skin especially on wrists, ankles, neck, and face; one is for clothing only. Other tips: avoid vampire hours just after sunrise and before sunset. Avoid marshes and ponds, which are breeding grounds for skeeters.